Tag: Garmin

  • Garmin Launches Update for Older High-End Smartwatches

    Garmin Launches Update for Older High-End Smartwatches

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has released stable updates for several smartwatches, including the Fenix 8 and Forerunner 970, following the August 2025 Feature Update.
    2. Significant updates have also been made for cycling computers, specifically the Edge 1050, priced at $699.99.
    3. A new beta update, Version 23.16, is being distributed for older premium smartwatches like the Enduro 2 and Fenix 7.
    4. Beta Version 23.16 addresses two main issues: pairing failures with the CT10 sensor and navigation problems during Hunt activities.
    5. The progression of beta versions suggests that Garmin may soon release a stable update for the v23.xx series.

    Garmin has recently made various updates to its devices following the announcement of the August 2025 Feature Update just over a week ago. To summarize, the company has rolled out new stable updates for the Fenix 8, Forerunner 970, Instinct 2, Instinct 3, and related smartwatches since its latest Feature Update was revealed. Additionally, it has provided significant updates for its cycling computers, including the Edge 1050 from last year, which is currently priced at $699.99 on Amazon.

    The Latest Beta Update

    Now, Garmin is focusing on its older premium smartwatches with a new beta update for the Enduro 2, Epix 2, Fenix 7, Marq Gen 2, and Quatix 7. For reference, these smartwatches last saw a stable update in June when Garmin launched System Software 22.06. During this time, they have pushed out various beta updates as they aim to deliver a new stable version in the future.

    What’s New in Beta Version 23.16

    After waiting for more than three weeks, Garmin has begun to distribute a new beta update known as Beta Version 23.16. This is the fourth build in the v23.xx series, and it is reported to tackle two main issues: one that could lead to failures in pairing the CT10 sensor, and another affecting navigation during Hunt activities. It is still uncertain when Garmin plans to complete the development of v23.xx. Nevertheless, the progression from v23.08 to v23.16 indicates that the company might be nearing the release of a stable version based on its recent modifications.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Garmin Launches Smartwatch Subscription for Satellite Messaging and SOS

    Garmin Launches Smartwatch Subscription for Satellite Messaging and SOS

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin smartwatches, like the Fenix 8, require a Garmin Connect+ subscription for full feature access, costing $6.99 monthly or $69 annually.
    2. Users need an additional Garmin Outdoor Maps+ subscription for premium maps, priced at $4.99 per month or $49 per year.
    3. A new subscription service called “Get Fully Connected” is in development, offering satellite connectivity features such as messaging and emergency calls.
    4. Features from the new subscription will work without a smartphone, using the smartwatch’s LTE modem and satellite connectivity.
    5. Garmin is creating a communication hub within its app to manage these services and provide information on satellite and LTE usage.

    In order to fully utilize all the features of a modern Garmin smartwatch such as the Fenix 8 (starting at $799 on Amazon), users must currently have a Garmin Connect+ subscription. This subscription is priced at $6.99 monthly or $69 annually in the United States. Additionally, to access premium maps with Garmin Outdoor Maps+, users need to pay another $4.99 per month or $49 per year.

    New Subscription on the Horizon

    A recent report from Garmin Rumors indicates that the popular smartwatch manufacturer is working on a new subscription service named “Get Fully Connected.” This subscription will be necessary for users to access the satellite connectivity that has been speculated about for the last few weeks. Subscribing will allow users to send and receive text messages through satellite, place emergency calls, make phone calls using 4G LTE, share their real-time location, and even transmit photos and voice messages via the cellular network.

    Features without a Smartphone

    All of these features are expected to function without the need for a smartphone nearby, as long as the Garmin smartwatch is equipped with both an LTE modem and satellite connectivity. Users can enjoy a free 30-day trial of this subscription, however, the pricing details post-trial remain undisclosed. Yet, the Garmin inReach subscription might hint at what the costs could be. For instance, the inReach Consumer Essential plan is available for $14.99 per month and includes unlimited emergency calls and check-in messages, along with 50 text messages and 10 photo or audio messages each month.

    Communication Hub Transformation

    To consolidate these features into a single application, Garmin is reportedly upgrading its messaging service into a comprehensive communication hub. The subscription will likely be manageable directly within this app, which will also offer additional details on satellite and LTE usage.

    Garmin Rumors’

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: ,
  • Garmin Update: Enhanced Accuracy with 5Hz Data Recording

    Garmin Update: Enhanced Accuracy with 5Hz Data Recording

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin announced the August 2025 Feature Update, introducing new changes for certain devices, mainly focusing on the Edge 1050.
    2. The Edge 1050 will receive enhancements like Forksight Mode, 5Hz GPS recording, Timing Gates, and new Ride profiles.
    3. Older cycling models, including Edge 540, Edge 840, and Edge 1040, will not receive the new features included in the update.
    4. All supported cycling computers received Software Series Version 28.20, but the Edge 1050 has eight additional changes compared to others.
    5. The Edge 540, Edge 840, and Edge 1040 gained three new features and various bug fixes with the Series Version 28.20 update.

    Earlier this month, Garmin surprised everyone by revealing the August 2025 Feature Update. This update comes with a number of changes for newer devices, including the Forerunner 570, Forerunner 970, Venu X1, and the Fenix 8 series. The only cycling computer that got a mention in this update was the Edge 1050, which is currently priced at $689.99 on Amazon.

    New Features and Improvements

    Garmin stated that the Edge 1050 would get enhancements for Forksight Mode, along with 5Hz GPS recording, Timing Gates, and new Ride profiles. However, it was uncertain if these features would also be available for older cycling models, such as the Edge 1040. As it turns out, these updates have not been applied to older models, with the Edge 540, Edge 840, and Edge 1040 missing out on those new features.

    Software Series Version 28.20

    In a somewhat perplexing move, Garmin has rolled out Series Version 28.20 to all its supported cycling computers, which includes the Edge 1050. Despite all four cycling computers receiving the same software version, the Edge 1050 has eight additional changes compared to the others. Still, the older models like the Edge 540, Edge 840, and Edge 1040 have picked up three new features with this Series Version 28.20, along with various bug fixes. The complete changelog for Series Version 28.20 is outlined below:

    Source:
    Link

    Garmin Update: Enhanced Accuracy with 5Hz Data Recording

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Garmin Smartwatch Update Adds Rucking and Auto-Rest Features

    Garmin Smartwatch Update Adds Rucking and Auto-Rest Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Garmin vivoactive 6 smartwatch has received a stable update to software version 12.70, three months after version 10.14.
    2. New features include the Evening Report, a new Rucking activity, and an automatic rest timer for Strength activities.
    3. Users can now access new Calculator and Tips apps, with Tips designed to enhance smartwatch usage.
    4. The update allows for personalized focus modes and includes smaller updates for GCM Translations and Tips Videos.
    5. The update is rolling out to 50% of users and can be manually downloaded through the smartwatch settings.

    The Garmin vivoactive 6 smartwatch is getting a fresh stable update: software version 12.70. This update comes about three months after the last one, version 10.14, which introduced new activities such as Gaming and Table Tennis, along with the Breathing Variations tool.

    New Features Added

    With the release of version 12.70, the vivoactive 6 smartwatch is now equipped with additional features. The update includes the Evening Report, which is similar to the well-received Morning Report, providing a nightly summary of your day. There’s also a new activity called Rucking, and the Strength activity now includes an automatic rest timer—this feature was previously available only for swimming activities.

    Useful Apps and Customization

    Moreover, users can now access new Calculator and Tips apps, with the Tips app designed to help users maximize the features of their smartwatch. Another exciting addition is the ability to create personalized focus modes. Alongside these major updates, there are smaller updates for GCM Translations (2.80) and Tips Videos (1.00).

    As per a post on the Garmin forum, software version 12.70 has already been rolled out to 50% of vivoactive 6 smartwatch users (currently priced at $299.99 on Amazon). While the update is being automatically pushed to eligible devices, you can also manually download it by going to the menu and selecting Settings > System > Software Update.

    Source:
    Link

    Garmin Smartwatch Update Adds Rucking and Auto-Rest Features

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Garmin’s August 2025 Update: Over 12 New Features for Smartwatches

    Garmin’s August 2025 Update: Over 12 New Features for Smartwatches

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has announced major software updates for its supported smartwatches and cycling computers, with the last update in May.
    2. New devices released include the Forerunner 570, Forerunner 970, and Venu X1, all included in the August 2025 Feature Update.
    3. The August update focuses on six major improvements, with a total of eighteen new enhancements and features available.
    4. The Venu X1 and related smartwatches will receive new features like Running Tolerance, Triathlon Coach, and Daily Suggested Track Workouts.
    5. The Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 have fewer modifications, and updates for older cycling models like Edge 840 and Edge 1040 are still uncertain.

    Garmin has quietly revealed its upcoming major software updates for the smartwatches it currently supports, along with its newest cycling computer. To summarize, the last time the company announced a similar update package was in May, when it introduced the Rucking activity and various enhancements for sleep.

    New Devices Released

    Since that time, Garmin has launched the Forerunner 570, Forerunner 970, and Venu X1 (currently priced at $799.99 on Amazon), all of which are included in this month’s Feature Update. The Feature Update for August 2025 applies to the following devices:

    As illustrated in the screenshots below, Garmin is concentrating on six major improvements for its August 2025 Feature Update. However, the company’s comparison table showcases eighteen new enhancements and features. According to this, additions such as Running Tolerance, Triathlon Coach, Daily Suggested Track Workouts, Running Economy, Step Speed Loss, and Evening Report are all new for the Venu X1, along with the Fenix E, Fenix 8, and related smartwatches like the Quatix 8.

    Updates for Forerunner Series

    In contrast, the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 have experienced fewer modifications this time. The Edge 1050 is also set to receive a collection of improvements tailored specifically for cycling computers. However, it is yet to be determined if older models like the Edge 840 and Edge 1040 will benefit from any of these updates. At the moment, Garmin estimates that these new features and adjustments will be available “over the coming weeks.” Regrettably, Garmin has not provided any specific details regarding this, though. For more information, please refer to the screenshots above and below.

    Source:
    Link

    Garmin's August 2025 Update: Over 12 New Features for SmartwatchesGarmin's August 2025 Update: Over 12 New Features for SmartwatchesGarmin's August 2025 Update: Over 12 New Features for Smartwatches

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Garmin Fenix 8 Pro: New LTE Feature in Connect App Revealed

    Garmin Fenix 8 Pro: New LTE Feature in Connect App Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin is developing smartwatches with 4G LTE capabilities, potentially including the Fenix 8 Pro.
    2. The LTE features may allow for location sharing, voice calls, and SOS messages.
    3. Recent updates in the Garmin Connect app show code related to LTE functionalities, including two-way messaging.
    4. Garmin Rumors suggest that other LTE-compatible wearables may be introduced alongside the Fenix 8 Pro.
    5. The release date for these LTE-enabled smartwatches is still unknown.

    More signs have emerged showing that certain Garmin smartwatches may have LTE capabilities, potentially including the anticipated Fenix 8 Pro. Discussions about this enhanced version of the Fenix 8 began back in May 2025, when the LTE feature was first brought to light.

    New Developments in LTE Features

    A recent disclosure from the5krunner, referencing their usual informant JohnW, reveals that Garmin is working on a “new plan” that incorporates 4G LTE along with satellite capabilities. The expected functionalities are said to have features like LiveTrack for location sharing, the ability to make voice calls, and send SOS messages.

    Insights from Garmin Rumors

    According to a report from Garmin Rumors, more details have surfaced regarding these capabilities. Through AppSensa software, the blog has found several references to the LTE function in a recent update of the Garmin Connect mobile application. One specific line found in the code, which seems to be related to a screen that appears after activating LTE, says “Stay connected and leave your phone behind with a satellite and LTE plan.” The code in the Garmin Connect app also hints at features such as two-way messaging and making voice calls via LTE.

    Other LTE Wearables on the Horizon?

    Additionally, The5krunner hypothesizes that Garmin might introduce other LTE-compatible wearables beyond the speculated Fenix 8 Pro. It is still unclear when Garmin will unveil any smartwatches featuring LTE capabilities, whether it’s a model from the Fenix 8 series, which is currently priced at $1,099.99 on Amazon, or another device.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: ,
  • Garmin’s Growth Driven by Innovative New Wearables

    Garmin’s Growth Driven by Innovative New Wearables

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin’s revenue increased by 20% in Q2 2024, reaching $1.81 billion.
    2. The gross profit margin improved from 57.3% to 58.8%, and the operating profit margin rose from 22.7% to 26%.
    3. Operating profit for the last quarter was $472.3 million, highlighting strong core business performance.
    4. Garmin’s business is divided into five categories: Fitness, Outdoor, Aviation, Marine, and Auto OEM, making it hard to assess smartwatch market performance.
    5. All segments showed year-on-year growth, with the Fitness segment leading at approximately $605 million in net sales.

    Garmin has a wide range of products, and we often cover their news and reviews at Notebookcheck. Recently, the company announced its financial results for the second quarter of 2025 (PDF). These results show that Garmin had a very successful quarter. When comparing quarterly results, they are measured against the same period from the previous year.

    Strong Revenue Growth

    When looking at the second quarter of 2024, Garmin saw its revenue rise a remarkable 20%, reaching $1.81 billion. The gross profit margin also improved, moving from 57.3% to 58.8%, while the operating profit margin increased from 22.7% to 26%. Operating profit, which reflects earnings from core business operations excluding interest and special income, hit $472.3 million in the last quarter. In contrast, Apple reported an operating profit of $28.20 billion (PDF). While this comparison may seem a bit unfair, Apple is also in the wearable market. Zepp Health, on the other hand, generated $59.4 million in revenue during the second quarter of 2025, marking an impressive 46.2% increase year-over-year, which is a significant leap compared to Garmin’s percentage.

    Business Segmentation

    Garmin organizes its operations into five main categories: Fitness, Outdoor, Aviation, Marine, and Auto OEM. This structure means the company does not categorize its products strictly by type. For instance, various models of smartwatches fall under different segments. Forerunner smartwatches belong to the Fitness category, while Instinct wearables fall under Outdoor. This approach makes it challenging to assess the overall performance of the smartwatch market within Garmin. Nevertheless, the annual report highlights substantial growth in wearables. Every segment experienced year-on-year growth, with the Fitness segment leading, achieving net sales of around $605 million.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Garmin Launches High-End Smartwatch Beta Update with Bug Fix

    Garmin Launches High-End Smartwatch Beta Update with Bug Fix

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin released beta version 17.27 for Fenix 8, Fenix 8 Solar, Fenix E, Tactix 8, and Enduro 3 smartwatches.
    2. The update includes two new bug fixes: one for Multisports activity settings and another for inaccurate time display.
    3. The over-the-air update is available for all users of the mentioned smartwatches.
    4. ECG, Dive, and Aviation features are currently turned off in this beta version.
    5. Garmin is likely testing additional features or fixes before finalizing the 17.xx software release.

    Garmin has released beta version 17.27 for owners of the Fenix 8 AMOLED, Fenix 8 Solar, Fenix E, Tactix 8, and Enduro 3 smartwatches. This update comes just after the previous beta version 17.25, which included two fixes related to potential crashes of the watch.

    New Bug Fixes

    The change log for beta version 17.27 includes two new bug fixes. The first fix addresses a problem related to Multisports activities. Users faced difficulties while trying to modify the Power Save Timeout Setting, but this issue has now been corrected. The second fix resolves a bug that could make the time displayed on the watch face inaccurate. It seems the time would freeze until users interacted with the device.

    OTA Update Availability

    A post on the Garmin forum states that this over-the-air update has been distributed to all users of the Fenix 8, Fenix 8 Solar, Fenix E, Tactix 8, and Enduro 3 smartwatches (current price $899.99 at Amazon). The message further indicates that, as with most beta updates, the ECG, Dive, and Aviation features remain turned off. This implies that Garmin plans to test additional new features or fixes before releasing a final version of the 17.xx software to all users of these devices.

    Source:
    Link

    Garmin Launches High-End Smartwatch Beta Update with Bug Fix

     

    Tags: ,
  • New Study Shows Smartwatch Tech Fails to Measure Stress Accurately

    New Study Shows Smartwatch Tech Fails to Measure Stress Accurately

    Key Takeaways

    1. Smart wearables claim to monitor sleep and stress, which can help users make lifestyle changes for better health.
    2. A study at Leiden University found that the accuracy of these devices may be questionable, especially for stress measurements.
    3. The study involved 781 students using the Vivosmart 4 device over three months, with EMA surveys assessing sleep, fatigue, and stress.
    4. While wearables accurately tracked sleep and fatigue, their stress readings did not align with EMA data.
    5. The findings suggest that wearable devices may not be reliable for monitoring stress, raising concerns for users who depend on them for health insights.

    An increasing number of smart wearables are claiming to monitor how well users are sleeping and how much stress they are experiencing. This information is important as it may help people make lifestyle changes to tackle significant health issues that could arise.

    New Study Findings

    However, a recent study suggests that the accuracy of these devices may not be as reliable as they claim. Conducted at Leiden University in the Netherlands, the research involved 781 students who wore the same device for three months. During this period, they were also asked to fill out ecological momentary assessment (EMA) surveys, which focused on their own experiences of sleep, fatigue, and stress.

    Diverging Results

    The findings showed that while the EMA data matched well with the wearables’ readings for fatigue and sleep, they did not align when it came to measuring stress levels. It’s worth mentioning that the study only examined one specific device: the Vivosmart 4, which was released around 2018 and later discontinued by Garmin in favor of the updated Vivosmart 5, available for $149.99 on Amazon since 2022.

    This raises questions as it seems Garmin’s method for evaluating stress might be different from the EMA approach, which could have influenced the study’s results.

    Implications of the Study

    Overall, the research is now being seen as an indication that most wearable devices designed to track stress may not be very accurate. The implications could be significant for users who rely on these gadgets to monitor their health and wellbeing, as stated in the Journal of Psychopathology and Clinical Science.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags:
  • Garmin Fenix 8 Pro Rumors: LTE and Satellite Smartwatches Leak

    Garmin Fenix 8 Pro Rumors: LTE and Satellite Smartwatches Leak

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin hinted at refreshing popular smartwatches with LTE capabilities, including models like Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8.
    2. Confusion arose about which models would receive phone call functions, with speculation mainly focused on the Fenix 8 series.
    3. A significant leak suggests Garmin may release multiple LTE-enabled devices, not just the Fenix 8 Pro.
    4. The new devices may integrate with Garmin’s inReach series, which uses the Iridium satellite network for messaging.
    5. Garmin is likely to develop a wrist-worn device that incorporates inReach features, similar to the existing Fenix and Quatix series.

    A few months ago, Garmin hinted that it might refresh several well-liked smartwatches with LTE capabilities. Back in late April, we noticed that Garmin’s Connect app had references to phone functions for models like the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8, but these references were soon erased. Since then, Garmin hasn’t made any official announcements.

    Confusion Over New Models

    Interestingly, there was a mix-up where it was suggested that the newer Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970 could handle phone calls. Still, new whispers emerged claiming that Garmin would only provide LTE features for the Fenix 8 series as part of a Fenix 8 Pro launch. Now, the5krunner has shared that it has what it calls a ‘huge leak’ about Garmin’s future plans for LTE and Satellite tech.

    Details from the Leak

    According to regular informant @JohnW, the5krunner has put much of this supposed leak behind a paywall. At the moment, there’s no word on when they will disclose this ‘huge leak’. However, we can still pick up some details from what they have shared thus far.

    For example, the5krunner mentions that Garmin’s strategy may involve ‘new devices’ instead of just one. This suggests there will be a range of LTE-enabled wearables beyond just the rumored Fenix 8 Pro. Additionally, it appears these new releases are connected to Garmin’s inReach series, which utilizes the Iridium satellite network for worldwide two-way messaging and other functions.

    Future inReach Devices

    Currently, Garmin offers devices like the inReach Mini 2 or inReach Messenger (currently priced at $249.99 on Amazon) and the more standard GPSMAP 86 or Montana 760. It seems that Garmin is planning to integrate inReach features into a wrist-worn gadget. Consequently, we might see another variant of the Fenix series, similar to the Quatix 8 that was released in June.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,